BBQ Beef & Cheddar from Blimpie features tender BBQ beef layered with melted sharp cheddar cheese, nestled in a toasted sub roll for a savory, smoky, and cheesy delight.
Equipments
- Oven or toaster oven
- Grill or stovetop pan
- Slicing knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese slicer (optional)
- Tongs
- Serving tray or plate
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) cooked beef brisket or roast beef
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 sub rolls
- Butter (optional, for toasting rolls)
The key to replicating BBQ Beef & Cheddar from Blimpie is using tender, cooked beef brisket or roast beef combined with a rich, smoky BBQ sauce to capture the authentic flavor. Sharp cheddar cheese should be melted thoroughly on top of the beef to achieve the distinctive cheesy texture. Toasting the sub rolls with butter enhances the sandwich's savory profile and helps maintain a satisfying crunch. Make sure to use a good quality BBQ sauce that balances sweetness and tang to mirror the original taste. Your homemade BBQ Beef & Cheddar sandwich will closely resemble the classic Blimpie menu favorite when you follow these ingredient guidelines.
Instructions
- **Instructions:**
- Preheat oven or toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice sub rolls in half lengthwise.
- (Optional) Spread butter on the inside of rolls.
- Toast rolls in oven until lightly golden, about 3-5 minutes.
- Slice cooked beef brisket or roast beef thinly using a slicing knife.
- Heat BBQ sauce in a saucepan or stovetop pan over medium heat.
- Add sliced beef to BBQ sauce and warm through, stirring occasionally.
- Place a generous layer of BBQ beef onto the bottom half of each toasted roll.
- Layer 2 slices of sharp cheddar cheese over the hot BBQ beef on each sub.
- Place the open-faced subs back into the oven until cheese is melted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from oven and close the rolls.
- Slice subs as desired.
- Serve hot on a tray or plate.
Substitution
The BBQ Beef & Cheddar from Blimpie copycat menu features tender, smoky beef brisket paired with sharp cheddar cheese on a toasted sub roll. If you don't have cooked beef brisket, roast beef or even shredded smoked pork can be substituted to maintain a similar flavor profile. When sharp cheddar is unavailable, any aged cheese with a strong taste like Colby Jack or Monterey Jack can work well. Toast your sub rolls lightly with butter in the oven or on a stovetop pan to add a golden crisp texture that complements the tender beef. You can also adjust the BBQ sauce amount to suit your desired level of smokiness and sweetness.
Tips
Ensure your beef is sliced thinly for even heating and better absorption of the BBQ sauce. When toasting the sub rolls, watch closely to avoid burning, especially if using butter, as it can brown quickly. Layer the cheese immediately over the hot BBQ beef to melt it perfectly without drying out. Use tongs for handling hot ingredients and a sharp knife for clean slicing to maintain presentation and safety during your preparation.
Nutritions
BBQ Beef & Cheddar from Blimpie provides a rich source of protein from the tender beef brisket, essential for muscle repair and growth. Sharp cheddar cheese contributes calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health, while the BBQ sauce adds flavor with some sugars and spices. The toasted sub roll offers carbohydrates for energy, though it may increase calorie intake depending on portion size. Your meal balances savory flavors with nutritional benefits, but be mindful of sodium levels due to processed cheese and sauce.
Storage
Store leftover BBQ Beef & Cheddar sandwiches tightly wrapped in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. Keep them refrigerated at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 2-3 days for optimal taste and safety. When reheating, use your oven or toaster oven to gently warm the sandwich and melt the cheese evenly without making the bread soggy.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap sharp cheddar with smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile. Instead of toasting rolls in the oven, grill them on a stovetop pan to add a subtle smoky char. For a twist, mix caramelized onions into the BBQ beef before assembling the sandwich. Butter can be replaced with olive oil or garlic spread to enhance the toasting step on your rolls.
Allergies
BBQ Beef & Cheddar contains common allergens such as dairy from the sharp cheddar cheese and gluten from the sub rolls. Individuals with cow's milk allergy or lactose intolerance may experience adverse reactions due to the cheese. Your sensitivity to gluten in the bread also needs consideration if you have celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Why this recipe?
Blimpie's BBQ Beef & Cheddar sandwich combines tender, slow-cooked beef with tangy barbecue sauce and melted cheddar cheese, creating a rich and savory flavor profile that appeals to many. The sandwich features robust, smoky notes balanced with creamy cheese, making it a satisfying choice for meat lovers. Trying to make the copycat version allows you to recreate this delicious blend at home, customizing the ingredients to suit your taste. Your efforts will result in a hearty, restaurant-quality sandwich that captures the essence of Blimpie's popular menu item.